As I compose my thoughts on the topic of suicide in the perinatal period, I find myself struggling with how to start. Usually one would start by discussing why this subject is important. And then move on to risk factors and warning signs, finally ending with what to do. But ending with what to do feels misplaced for this topic. …

To celebrate May being Postpartum Depression Awareness Month, several young ladies from the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders created artwork to show what Postpartum Depression means to them and how they would like to bring attention to Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders as a whole. Their amazing designs were on exhibit in the Texas Capitol building for several …

written by: Katie Vinopal, LD, CPPD (ABG), Labor Doula and Postpartum Doula Having a baby is a time of massive change. In the past, our ancestors lived in villages collaborating in the effort to raise a family. Mothers breastfeeding each other’s children when a new mother just can’t stand another cluster feed, or just needs to recover from her delivery. Women …

On June 24, a hot and humid Saturday morning, we held the 2017 Climb Out of the Darkness. It was our first year hosting the Austin event, and we had a great time! Climb Out of the Darkness® is an annual event organized by Postpartum Support International that aims to raise awareness of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), raise money for …

PPHA is proud to a be a co-sponsor of the Inaugural UT Maternal Mental Health and Wellness Conference, April 27-29. The conference planning team has been working hard for over a year to put together two and a half days of wonderful programming designed to educate professionals about this important mental health issue. Our conference will begin with a perinatal …

The 2nd PSI Traveling Memory Quilt is in the Making by Donna C. Kreuzer, PPHA Board Member By July 15, 2017, the 2nd PSI (Postpartum Support International) Traveling Memory Quilt will be complete and making its debut at the 30th PSI Annual Conference, July 14-15, 2017 in Philadelphia, PA. What a beautiful, meaningful, tangible way to honor the many lives lost to Perinatal Mood Disorders across …

Written by: Laura Howard, PPHA Board of Director If you haven’t been to a NAMIWalk, it is an amazing experience. It’s a celebration of the strength of individuals and the Austin community as we come together to support one another, provide mental health education and resources, and fight to end stigma against mental illness. On September 24, over 1,800 people and organizations gathered at …

2016 Postpartum Support International (PSI) Conference written by Melissa Bentley, PPHA Board of Director A few weeks ago was the annual PSI conference, this year held in San Diego, California. It was my first time to attend a PSI conference, and it certainly won’t be my last! Simply being surrounded by more than 400 others who share my passion for working …

There are two main organizations helping moms in the Austin area with Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMDs). Read below for more details and how you or a loved one can get help. PSI – Postpartum Support International (www.postpartum.net) PSI is an excellent source of training, materials and support for moms and families affected by PMDs. There are two PSI coordinators for …

As of this year in Texas, May was officially designated Postpartum Depression Awareness Month. This is an important designation to help create awareness, education and support for mothers and families struggling with any postpartum mood disorder throughout the state of Texas. DEPRESSION IS THE NUMBER ONE COMPLICATION DURING CHILDBIRTH, and the public recognition of this important issue will help remove the stigma …

About Us

This website contains information about Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMDs) for women, their families, and professionals. We recognize the need for perinatal support in Central Texas is great. Our goal is to connect families with services and adapt as needs change. Please visit the website often for updates. Click here to read more.